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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Booking budget tips, Canal Blog, Narrowboat holidays

valentines boat hire cambridgeshire

Save 10% on 2024 day hires

Quiet rural moorings and historic waterside pubs make narrowboat day hire the perfect romantic getaway. Fox Boats offer day boat hire near Ely and Cambridge for up to ten people, on the March Adventurer or the March Explorer. This gives couples the chance to escape on board their own private canal boat, or take family and friends along to celebrate an engagement, anniversary or another important relationship milestone. You can even bring your dog! There is plenty of seating both inside and outside the boat, and a see-through cover at the front protects passengers from any occasional rain showers.

If you hire a boat for the day you can enjoy a peaceful cruise along the east Anglian waterways, getting close to nature under the wide Fenland skies. Look out for kingfishers beside the river, and animals grazing in the fields while you’re getting away from the fast pace of modern life.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, or even planning a marriage proposal, we can arrange delicious food platters to be available on board, from Grazing by Gem. Choose from a traditional afternoon tea, a gentleman’s afternoon tea or a selection of graze boxes.

On board the narrowboat you will find the galley equipped with a hob, fridge and sink, so that you can enjoy snacks and hot drinks while you travel. There is a convenient Tesco and other shops in March, before you set off. There is a dinette and seating area inside the boat. There is also a toilet on board.

Romantic Destinations

Cruising east through the town of March you can pass the windfarm and visit the picturesque villages of Upwell and Outwell. Church Bridge moorings are a great place to stay for a lunch for two. There are also idyllic moorings at Outwell Basin, which is convenient for The Crown (pub) and The Crown Lodge Hotel. Treat your partner to an afternoon tea here, or an intimate meal in the award-winning restaurant.

Church Bridge moorings

Alternatively, travelling west towards Peterborough, past Floods Ferry Marina Park you can reach Ashline Lock and Whittlesey; an ancient market town with an interesting maze of streets. Whittlesey offers limited moorings at the back of a leisure centre and only a short walk from the historic market place. There are two beautiful churches to visit, and a range of restaurants and takeaways.

Our day boats are really popular at weekends so book early if that’s your preferred time to get away. But they are also available on weekdays. If this is your first time narrowboating we will show you the basics. We’re a friendly family-run business, so you can ask us any questions you like, before you set off.

So, create special memories together with the one you love and take lots of happy-couple photos on a day out on a narrowboat this year.

We are spreading the love for Valentine’s Day. From now until 16th February 2024 you can save 10% off our 2024 day hires.

For more surprising and unusual tips and ideas for days out in Cambridgeshire, enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your inbox. (We never share or sell email addresses; this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Canal boaters & writers, Narrowboaters knowledge
At the end of Monk's Lode

I next visited the Middle Level again during August 1984. I set off from my mooring at the Fish and Duck marina at the junction of the River Cam and Old West River and headed for Denver where there were cruisers waiting to go through the lock.

Approaching Denverl ock Aug 1984

Approaching Denver lock where several cruisers are waiting – cc John Revell

This was my first time entering Salters Lode lock from the tidal Ouse and I was grateful to receive good advice from the Denver lock keeper about how to do this on an in-coming tide.

converted mill Nordelph

A fine converted mill at Nordelph. This has been extended but remains very distinct. John Revell

 

Nordelph Chequers pub closed pic 2005

The familiar view as you approach the centre of Nordelph. The Chequers pub on the right closed in 2005.

The journey along Well Creek was uneventful though I recall being intrigued by a simple swing bridge across the river to a small cottage near Nordelph. I learnt later that this belonged to Gladys Dack and her name lives on with the Gladys Dack mooring constructed by the Well Creek Trust on the opposite side of the river. The cottage is now derelict having been badly damaged by a gas explosion which fortunately did not injure Miss Dack.

Glady Dacks cottage simple swing bridge john revell

Glady Dack’s cottage and simple swing bridge. The house was badly damaged by a gas explosion and is now derelict.

After Well Creek and Marmont Priory lock we headed down Pophams Eau and moored near the junction of the Sixteen Foot and Forty Foot rivers. The following day we attempted to reach Horseways lock but gave up when we discovered there was nowhere to turn at the lock. We had to reverse to the junction with the Forty Foot which was something I have done many times since. On one occasion in 2010 this was part of a campaign cruise undertaken by the local branch of the Inland Waterways Association (IWA) which was broadcast on BBC Look East. Alastair Chambers, then Chairman of the Peterborough Borough Branch of the IWA, spoke to the camera while I just had to do the reversing.

I failed to boat the full length of the Forty Foot when I visited the Middle Level in April 1984 {see part 1} and it was a relief to get under the very low Ramsey Hollow bridge without mishap or injuring myself this time. Note that this bridge has since been raised by the Royal Engineers partly with funds raised by the local IWA at events held at Bill Fen marina [courtesy of John and Lynne Shotbolt].

Ramsey basin

Ramsey basin. Gang plank for access to town but nowhere to turn a 48′ boat round.

That evening was spent at the George Inn at Ramsey Forty Foot where we again added our name to the boater’s log book kept behind the bar before continuing the next day to Ramsey town. My notes record that this was easy boating with a good mooring at the end but nowhere to turn a 48‘ boat like mine.

We explored the town, ate fish and chips and visited the Jolly Sailor, a pub which has changed very little since then and which I last visited in September 2023.

My notes from 1984 state “Jolly Sailor. 6/10. Choice of rooms. Landlord ex RAF. Lots of brasses and locals. Beer by (Watney) Manns.

The moorings at Ramsey deteriorated over the years but have now been completely rebuilt to a high standard. There are also recently built houses on both sides. A turning point has also been provided and I have seen a 60’ narrow-boat turn there.

Lodes End lock helpers

Plenty of help and onlookers at Lodes End lock

There was no turning point in 1984 so the following morning we therefore had to reverse all the way which took 90 mins. We then went through Lodes End lock and headed for Yaxley. Unfortunately, and not for the only time, we could not get under Exhibition Bridge which was too low to get under so we proceeded to Monk’s Lode where we moored overnight at the end of navigation.

Monks Lode

At the end of Monk’s Lode

Our view that this was a very quiet spot was confirmed by a conversation the next day with a local man. He said that the only boats he saw these days were weed boats but this was a shame as he was looking for a wife (presumably to drift past and into his arms). This conversation took place in August when some waterways elsewhere would have been very busy. I reversed a short way and turned near an old pumping station. Monks Lode remains entirely unspoilt but the turning point is overgrown so reversing is needed for most boats.

After another quiet day we paid our second visit to C & T Fox boat yard. My notes say

“Helpful and business like. Diesel £1.20 a gallon. Mooring £6.62 per week”

We also visited the Horse and Jockey pub which was a short distance from the boatyard but has since been demolished before spending the evening in the Red Hart at Three Holes (an Elgoods pub which is also now closed).

Outwell approach

Approaching Outwell before the church. A familiar scene still today.

We made our way to Salters Lode the next day, stopping for fish and chips at J R Stott Outwell (still there) and a drink at the Red Lion at Outwell (a splendid looking building on the busy main road, still there but no longer a pub – the prominent Bullards brewery sign  remains) and the Chequers at Nordelph (another closed pub).

before Outwell basin former wisbech canal junction

Just before Outwell basin and the former junction with the Wisbech canal.

We had chosen to return via the tidal Hundred Foot (New Bedford). We went through Salters Lode at low water and waited outside for the big spring tide to arrive. We set off with the tide and reached the Riverside Inn at Earith by lunchtime. I have used this tidal route many times since then all without difficulty.

[photos]

All Photos Copyright John Revell

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Amazing things to do, Amazing things to see, Canal Blog, Narrowboaters knowledge

Want to save money on your narrowboat holiday? Looking to book a romantic mini-break? Considering living on a narrowboat? Last year on our blog we covered all of these topics, and we launched a new interactive waterways map, and suggested some good tips for family narrowboat holidays. Here are some of the highlights from another adventurous year of exploring the Fenland waterways.

We are assuming that your Christmas decorations have now been taken down and the festive food has all been eaten. So before the January blues set in, try making some fun plans for the year ahead. The third Monday in January is known as Blue Monday; the most depressing day of the year. While there is no science to back up the claim that this day is the worst, it has become a day for promoting mental health awareness and self-care.

Read: Three Foxy Mood-Boosting Tips for This Winter

In February it can be difficult to avoid romance, as the shops offer Valentines cards, gifts, flowers and chocolates for your loved one. But those who enjoy canal boating will know that there is no better way to spend quality time with your partner than a peaceful cruise on the waterways. Find out why a narrowboat holiday is such an original and quirky idea to celebrate important relationship milestones.

Read: 5 Reasons Why Canal Boats are the Most Romantic Holiday

Fox narrowboat holiday hire

Credit: Fox Narrowboats

narrowboat on fens

Spring

It’s difficult to estimate exactly how many UK canal boats are liveaboards. The diverse inland boating community includes middle-aged divorcees, retired couples, young professionals, people on low incomes, and canal heritage enthusiasts. Some people like the alternative lifestyle, others hope it may be a cheaper lifestyle. Weigh up the extra chores, boat maintenance and finances, against freedom, adventure, independence and living close to nature.

Read: The Pro’s and Cons of Living on a Canal Boat

Summer

If you have ever wondered…Where’s the nearest pub? Is there a shop near here? And where can I moor? Our new interactive waterways map was launched last summer, and it has all the answers. It shows where you are on the navigation and what useful things you might find nearby. It also includes images, icons and highlights so that you can always find what you want, when you want it.

Read: Fascinating New Interactive Waterways Map for Narrowboaters

Autumn

If you’re a parent you may be wondering how to prepare for a narrowboat journey, what to bring and whether the kids can steer the boat. A Fox Narrowboat trip is much more than a holiday; it’s an opportunity to create lifelong memories with your family.

Read: Four Things Every Parent Should Know About Narrowboat Holidays

Winter

At Christmas time special services are broadcast on TV from English cathedrals. So in December we took the opportunity to feature two impressive cathedrals which can be visited by narrowboat on a Foxboats holiday. More than just spectacular places of worship they offer a rich history, architecture, markets, talks, concerts, exhibitions, tours, dining and shopping.

Read: Two Stunning Cathedrals to Visit on a Canal Boat Holiday

If you enjoyed reading ‘The Six Best Things We Learned About Narrowboating Last Year’, look for ‘Follow Blog’ in the sidebar on the right and enter your email address. We’ll send you occasional stories, tips and advice about narrowboating around the Fens. (We never share or sell email addresses – your details are safe with us.)

If you want to beat the winter blues and book a canal holiday in 2024 check availability now.

You may also like: Why January is the Best Time to Book Your Hire Boat Holiday

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Canal boaters & writers, Featured articles, Narrowboaters knowledge
Bunbury Staircase locks

19 May 1984. Journey start Bunbury Staircase locks cc John Revell

 

John Revell 1984 Bunbury Shropshire Union Canal

CC John Revell Northampton River Nene 23 May 1984.

 

I bought my first narrow boat in 1984 after many years of hiring boats. My trip began at Bunbury on the Shropshire Union on 19 May 1984 and I reached Northampton after 5 long, hard days passing through the centre of Birmingham including Gas Street basin (which was yet to be developed). Another long day on the Nene followed, starting at the Britannia Inn just below Northampton and finishing in time for drinks in the Chequered Skipper at Ashton where a live band was playing. As John Gagg had written in one of his canal guides there were torrents of water coming over the top gates at some of the locks. None of the locks had been electrified at the time and these included Ditchford radial arm lock which involved 148 turns of a hand wheel, once to lower the heavy bottom gate and once to open.  Years later I still find it surprising that none of the endless notices on Ditchford lock state that it is the only surviving radial arm lock on the Nene.

John Revell Lilford lock Nene 24 May 1984

Lilford lock on the Nene on 24 May 1984. The manual wheel fitted on the guillotine is just visible

Two days later I reached Stanground lock where to my relief I found that my 48 foot boat would just fit into Stanground lock (which at 49 foot was the shortest lock I had encountered on my travels and which was the reason I had bought a 48 foot boat in the first place). This was my first meeting with Mr Rootham (I never knew his Christian name was Alan, let alone called him that for years) and then to Ashline lock where the resident lock keeper suddenly appeared and furiously wound paddle gear of a type which I had never seen before.

Bevills Leam pumping station Pondersbridge May 1984 john revell

Bevill’s Leam pumping station near Pondersbridge on 26 May 1984 – cc John Revell

From there we headed for Pondersbridge. Although I had read that this was a dead end it still came as a shock to find Bevill’s Leam pumping station right across the river and no lock to go beyond so we turned round and headed for Turves where we had been told there was a pub. The Three Horseshoes did not disappoint. There was again live music in the saloon and a games area in the public bar with table football and darts.The friendly locals were amazed to learn that we were on a long boating trip from somewhere near Chester to somewhere near Ely and happened to be dropping into their pub in Turves on the way.

May 1984 Lodes End Lock John Revell

28 May 1984 Lodes End Lock opened in 1984. Very wet day! enclosure was built later.

 

Plaque Lodes End Lock 1984

Plaque Lodes End Lock 1984

There was heavy rain the next day and we set off late to find the pub at Chainbridge on the 20 Foot river which no longer existed so we continued to March and the boatyard of CT and P Fox Boatbuilders where I met Charlie Fox for the first time –  I recall he sold me some stern grease in a recycled treacle tin.

We finished up that evening at Benwick. Some of the houses in the main street and many of the gravestones had clearly been badly affected by subsistence but the Five Alls pub was memorable and full. There was a live and loud organ playing in the main bar and a deafening juke box for younger people at the rear.

The following day we went to Woodwalton Fen (Great Raveley Drain) in the rain and finished that evening in the George Inn at Ramsey Forty Foot where we signed the boater’s log book kept behind the bar and warmed up by the fire. I mention in passing that Joe Bugner, former world heavyweight boxing champion, lived in the big house opposite the George around that time.

The next day was memorable for all the wrong reasons. I damaged a finger badly when I caught it under the very low Ramsey Hollow bridge soon after leaving the George. A kind motorist took me to Manea train station where I eventually caught a train to Ely and walked into Ely military hospital and received welcome and prompt treatment. Meanwhile my friends (remember this was our first visit to the Middle Level)  boated along the Forty Foot river, the Sixteen Foot river and Well Creek  through Salters Lode and met up with me suitably bandaged at what was then called the Black Horse at Littleport at 9.30 pm. Remember there were no mobile phones then and red phone boxes were infrequent. Often they were already being used or there was a queue outside or they were simply not working. You also needed plenty of loose change to use them. You could not simply ring for an ambulance or a taxi from the boat let alone remain in contact with my friends but we all somehow managed to meet up at the Black Horse at Littleport late that evening.

After a brief spell at the Fish and Duck marina I was fortunate to move my boat to Fox’s marina where I was able to explore the Middle Level further over the next couple of years. I then returned in 1996 where I have been ever since both in my first boat and the second Olive Emily which Fox’s built for me in 2002. I will write more about this later.

John Revell
8 Oct 2023

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Amazing things to see, Canal Blog, Fayres & local events

Each January, the town of Whittlesey comes alive with the sound of folk music and the dancing steps of a Straw Bear. A man dressed head to foot in a straw costume parades through the streets attended by musicians and folk dancers from around the UK.

straw bear festival whittlesey cambridgeshire

straw bear festival whittlesey cambridgeshire picture: shutterstock licenced

This weekend event, now known as the Straw Bear Festival, follows a nineteenth century tradition celebrating Plough Monday as the start of the agricultural year. Agricultural labourers dressed one of their own in a costume of straw, saved for the purpose from the previous harvest. They went from house to house begging for money after the “Bear” had entertained householders with a dance. The takings were shared amongst the labourers and most of the money was spent in the Whittlesey public houses of which there were many. The farmworkers often blacked their faces with soot in the hope of not being recognised as their entertainment became more and more rowdy. In fact, the event was finally banned by the local constabulary as it was seen as an opportunity for cadging and drunkenness.

In 1980, the tradition was revived by the Whittlesey Society and local folk enthusiasts. The event is held on the weekend nearest to Plough Monday which is itself always celebrated on the Monday after Epiphany. As well as the parade with over 250 invited musicians and dance sides, there are storytellers and a ceilidh style concert. On Sunday, known as Plough Sunday, a church service is held where a plough is taken into the church to be blessed. The event finishes when the costume of straw “The Bear” is set alight and burnt.

In 2024 the Straw Bear Fenstival will be held from 12-14 January You can visit the stawbear festival from the Whittlesey moorings.

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Booking budget tips, Canal Blog
narrowboat holiday boats fox 2023

narrowboat holiday boats fox 2023

Sounds unlikely, right? After all, the British weather is unpredictable, and maybe you’re not that confident when it comes to boat handling. So surely a week on a UK canal boat is not going to tick all of your boxes?

Or is it?

After living on a narrowboat for 13 years I can suggest what to wear, what to bring and how fast to travel to make sure that you have an absolutely amazing time. You don’t even need to know anything about canals or boats to make this your best holiday ever.

Dress Code

Take some comfortable clothes and shoes for your day-to-day boating. You may be working the locks, banging in mooring pegs, pulling ropes, holding the tiller or preparing snacks. Space is limited on board so don’t bring too much luggage, but you can of course bring some nicer clothes for those trips “ashore” to go shopping or visit a restaurant. Take clothing for all weathers, and a torch for finding your way down the towpath in the dark.  (Tunnels and bridges can sometimes drip water on to you when you’re steering!)

The Galley

You can bring some basic food supplies with you, but you can also go to the supermarket when you arrive in March, or have a full grocery shop delivered to your boat. There will also be opportunities for shopping along the way as you travel. There is no freezer on board, but our boats come with fully equipped galleys; crockery, cutlery, oven, hob, microwave and fridge.

galley fox narrowboat kitchen stove sink

galley fox narrowboat

Keeping Cosy

When I lived aboard, people would sometimes ask me if it was cold in winter, and whether living aboard was a bit like camping? But nothing could be further from the truth: Modern narrowboats are extremely comfortable. Fox Narrowboats are supplied with gas or diesel central heating, fresh bed linen and cosy duvets.

Slow Down

If you’re new to narrowboating you may be surprised at how long the journey takes. While the speed limit is officially four miles per hour, you are likely to travel much slower than that. Locks will slow you down, and you are expected to reduce your speed to “tickover” when you pass moored boats. You can plan your route using the guidebook provided with the hire boat, or our online interactive map.. This will help you choose your planned destination of the end of the day; it can be convenient to moor close to a pub. A spell of rain, or a particularly interesting tourist attraction can also slow down your schedule. So embrace the slower pace of life and begin to enjoy the moment: When planning the distance you can travel, less is more. Don’t spend all day at the tiller; instead make time for exploring the villages and towns that you come across.

fox narrowboats flower donation riverside

fox narrowboats flower donation riverside

Choose Your Crew Wisely

Are you OK about sharing a small space with your nearest and dearest? You may like to assign roles to one another; for example, steerer, lock operator, cook and maker-of-hot-drinks! Be prepared to moor up and take a break if some of the crew need it. Make sure everyone is listening when you get the handover talk from our Fox Narrowboats staff. Perhaps someone will be in charge of working out distances and mooring locations, factoring in water points and shopping stops. Older children can also get involved with being part of the crew.

Even Celebrities Are Doing It!

Boaters on the CanalWorld discussion forums have spotted Matthew Corbett, Toyah Wilcox, Timothy Spall, Nicholas Cage, David Suchet, Heston Blumenthal, Brian Blessed, Camilla Parker Bowles and Barry Gibb from the Bee Gees messing about in boats.

Read:  How to Holiday Like a Celebrity Without it Costing a Fortune

It may be hard to believe, but if you get these few things right, you really can have the best holiday ever. Pack the right clothes and bring some basic food supplies, choose a crew that you love, and take the journey nice and slow. We’ll show you how to handle the boat, and provide all mod cons and creature comforts to make you feel at home. Choose your hire boat now and start getting excited about your next narrowboat adventure on the uncrowded Fenland waterways in 2024.

Are you new here? For more good tips about canal boating holidays enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your in-box. (We never share or sell email addresses, this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

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by Chris HowesPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Narrowboaters knowledge

Spoiler Alert – There are so many clues in this little quiz, that I confidently predict that most readers will correctly guess the answer before reaching the end.

i. who was named after a fictional ‘ lost boy who never grew up’ created by his godfather?
ii. Was the only child of a famous polar explorer?
iii. Was a huntsman turned ‘Father of Conservation’?
iv. Won a bronze medal for England in sailing at the 1936 Berlin Olympics?
v. Became a British gliding champion?
vi. Ice skated at the British National Championships?
vii. Presented the BBC’s first ever natural history programme in 1953 live from his home
viii. Started the World Wide Fund for Nature, designing the logo of himself?
ix. Was described by Sir David Attenborough as ‘The patron saint of conservation’?

The answer is of course Sir Peter Markham Scott (September 1909 – August 1989)
Peter was named after Peter Pan, the character created by his godfather J M Barrie. He was the only child of one of the world’s most famous explorers, Robert Falcon Scott (Scott of the Antarctic). In his last letter home before he died on his ill-fated mission to the South Pole, Robert Falcon Scott urged his wife to: “Make the boy interested in natural history if you can, it’s better than games”.

Young Peter Scott on a boat

Young Peter Scott

He was educated in our region, attending Oundle School (on the river Nene) and Trinity College, Cambridge. He shot birds as an undergraduate, but also painted them professionally. As his interest in ornithology grew, he abandoned hunting and became interested in the conservation of his former prey.

river painting

Peter Scott’s painting

Birds flying

Another one of Peter Scott’s paintings

He was an accomplished sportsman, winning a bronze medal at the 1936 Olympic Games for sailing, becoming the British gliding champion in 1963 and a national championship standard iceskater.

He presented the BBC’s first ever natural history programme live from his Slimbridge home in 1953. Sir David Attenborough sites Sir Peter’s pioneering TV career as his inspiration and calls him his ‘hero’ and the ‘patron saint of conservation’.

Birds on water

Slimbridge now

As you leave the estuary of the river Nene, twin lighthouses stand sentinel either side of the river at Sutton Bridge. These were built in 1831 to designs by John Rennie (architect of Westminster Bridge and Denver Sluice). The eastern of these, was bought in 1933 by Peter Scott.

At this remote spot, he established his first bird sanctuary (before going on to set up the World Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust based at Slimbridge). InH 1941 his friend, the American novelist Paul Gallico, published The Snow Goose. This was based on their observations of Pink-footed geese at Sutton Bridge (the setting of the book was changed from Sutton Bridge to Essex, and the Snow Goose is actually native to North America and rarely found in the British Isles).

Snow Goose Cover

The Snow Goose

Scott married the novelist Elizabeth Jane Howard in 1942 and they had a daughter, Nicola, born a year later. Howard left Scott in 1946 and they were divorced in 1951. At this time she was employed as part-time secretary to the pioneering canals conservation organisation the Inland Waterways Association. There she met and collaborated with Robert Aickman, who along with Tom Rolt is accepted as one of the ‘founding fathers of canal restoration’. Elizabeth went on to become a successful novelist, going on to marry Kingsley Amis. Her remarkable life is recorded in her autobiography ‘Slipstream’ and several biographies. Sir Peter’s equally remarkable life and work is similarly recorded in several books.

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by Chris HowesPosted on Posted in Amazing things to see, Canal Blog

There are four rivers in England which are all called ‘Ouse’.

The Sussex Ouse is a 42 mile long river which joins the sea at Newhaven.

Sussex Ouse

Sussex Ouse looking down stream from Mount Caburn

The Little Ouse flows from the Norfolk/Suffolk border for 37 miles to join the Great Ouse near Littleport in Cambridgeshire.

The Yorkshire Ouse flows for 52 miles until it meets the River Trent at Trentfalls, where they both join the Humber estuary. The tidal section of the Yorkshire Ouse is a truly mighty river, as anyone who has seen the photos of Naburn Lock (below York) completely submerged below floods, or who has tried to steer from the Ouse on a falling tide into the lock at Selby, will testify.

Lendel Bridge

Lendel Bridge Yorkshire Ouse

The Great Ouse rises in Northamptonshire. Originally it found the sea below Wisbech, via the River Nene. It now joins the sea near King’s Lynn after a comparatively sedate 162 mile journey from its source.

So what makes this Ouse ‘Great’ – in comparison to its mighty ‘big brother’ in Yorkshire ? It was probably first called the ‘Great Ouse’ to differentiate it from the ‘Little Ouse’ which joins it below Ely. But round here, we believe that it is called ‘Great’ because it is simply the only one where you can hire a fox narrow boat!

derelict watermans arms

Derelict Watermans arms

 

The bewildered raindrop 

raindrop

raindrop

The southern and western upland areas of Northamptonshire are the source of a number of southern England’s major rivers. The Great Ouse rises in Wappenham and flows east to the Wash. The Upper Avon rises in Naseby and flows west into Warwickshire. The River Cherwell rises in Hellingdon and flows south to join the Thames in Oxford, and the River Nene rises on Arbury Hill and flows northeast, also to the Wash.

Any drop of rain, falling within this comparatively small area of land, could be forgiven for not having the faintest idea whether it was going to end up in the Bristol Channel, the Thames Estuary, or the Wash.

If our confused rain drop has come down the Great Ouse, just as it reaches Denver, only 14 miles from the sea, it might be diverted into the Great Ouse Cut-Off Channel via the Diversion Sluice and pumped off in the opposite direction To Essex

If you are interested in exploring the Fenland Waterways Foxs have day hire narrowboats and holiday boats available.

image credits Watermans Arms Chris Howes all others Shutterstock.

Hey! Are you new here? Subscribe on the right to receive more secrets of the undiscovered Fenland waterways, by email. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks.

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Amazing things to do, Canal Blog, Get healthy, Narrowboat holidays
canal tow path cycling with family

So, the nights are drawing in, the clocks are about to change, and the summer boating season is sadly over! Here at Fox Boats we will be winterising our narrowboats, which involves a series of maintenance jobs that keep the boats at their best while they’re out of use.

Read: How Winter Threatens to Damage Your Narrowboat – 3 Ways to Protect Yourself

So here are our top three tips for enjoying the winter months

1) Exercise

We all know that exercise can help to boost our mental health, so if you live near to a canal, running, walking or cycling on the towpath can offer a workout in the sunlight. Being close to nature can also lift your mood; not just the water and plants, but the busy ducks, swans, moorhens and geese can cheer you up. When you’re on a narrowboat holiday interesting exercise options are included, such as, operating the locks, walking between the locks, and pulling ropes and hammering pegs when mooring the boat up.

canal tow path cycling

canal tow path cycling with family

2) Festivities

There are some happy occasions to look forward to in the winter. Halloween offers themed events, or paranormal investigations. This year Oliver Cromwell’s House offers some walking tours themed around ghosts and witches.

Oliver Cromwell House

Oliver Cromwell House. Photo by Gwendraith at English Wikipedia

This offers special events and house tours throughout the year, and you can visit by boat when travelling on the River Great Ouse. Ely is claimed to be one of England’s spookiest cities. (Read more in The Spooky Truth About Cruising to Ely.) The strange and compelling landscape of the Fens, with their huge skyscapes, reclaimed marshlands and scattered and isolated villages can be very eerie at this time of year. Peterborough Museum, claims to have eight resident ghosts. They include a First World War soldier and a ghostly kitchen maid. This museum can also be visited by boat if you are taking the March to Peterborough cruise. This 12 hour return trip is ideal for a short break.

Fens Wetland

Fens Wetland. Photo by Sam Forson

It wouldn’t be winter in England without Christmas, including festive markets and a trip to church. The ancient architecture, candlelight, holly and ivy, and special services such as carols, advent, christingles and nativities can brighten up a dark day. If you’re planning a narrowboat holiday for next year check out Four Churches to Visit When it’s Not Even Christmas. Even Christmas shopping can be fun if your friends and family are into boating: Read Thoughtful Christmas Gifts for the Narrowboater in Your Life. Our local attractions usually host special Christmas events: Father Christmas will be at Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, and the Winter Lights at Anglesey Abbey offer a beautiful, sensory after-dark journey.

3) Plan Ahead

Nothing beats the winter blues like planning your next holiday though. A narrowboat holiday can be particularly good for boosting a low mood, as you can travel slowly through stunning scenery, under our spectacular Fenland skies, away from the noise of modern life. On a waterways holiday you may find that you are outside more than you would be on some other types of British holiday, getting that all important dose of daylight and vitamin D.

outwell fox narrow boat moored by the shops

Outwell Fox narrow boat moored by the shops

You may also like: Feeling Stressed? 5 Ways This Unknown Village Can Soothe Your Soul

We are in no doubt that our narrowboat holidays can chase away the blues because of the great feedback we get from our customers. Check out the kind words we’ve received in our customer reviews.

So, if you want to go narrowboating next year, choose your favourite narrowboat and plan your ideal cruise. Fox Boats are ideally situated on the uncrowded east Anglian waterways, near Cambridge, Ely and Peterborough.

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by Chris HowesPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Featured articles, Guest & customer articles, Towns & villages
fox narrowboat hire on the fens waterways
fox narrow boat hire fens

fox narrowboat hire on the fens waterways

Question – What’s green and yellow with a flash of red, floats below sea level, but isn’t a submarine ?

Answer – the Fox narrowboat that could be part of your next holiday!

The Fox narrowboat hire fleet is based on the Middle Level in March, in Cambridgeshire. The Middle Level is a largely man made group of rivers lying between the River Nene and the River Great Ouse. They were formed in the 17th century by the draining of marshy fens. As the land dried out it shrank resulting in (not a lot of people know this) most of the Middle Level being below mean sea level.

Fox boats give you unique luxury access to this beautiful and historic world, rife with wildlife, big sunsets and nearly forgotten history. Those of us who live or regularly boat here have kept this a well guarded secret, but I’m going to ‘spill the beans’ and let you in on it.

march waterways by local artist Adrian Veater

march waterways by local artist Adrian Veater Peterborough

Three out of four of the Fenland Market Towns offer visitor moorings. Although the big Tesco near the Fox hire base in March provides a good opportunity to stock up before your departure, the town centre moorings in March offer shopping opportunities, pubs and takeaways.

Ramsey

ramsey 40ft mooring

ramsey 40ft mooring

The extensive new visitor moorings in Ramsey finally offer the opportunity to explore this fascinating and rewarding town (also with a close by Tesco superstore).

ramsey dock 2017

ramsey dock 2017

An interesting feature is the Great Whyte, the main shopping street which had previously been the port until the river was built over in the 1850s. The river still flows below and is visible from the morning’s (https://ramseytunnels.co.uk)

Ramsey Basin

ramsey basin

Whittlesey

Whittlesey offers limited moorings at the back of a leisure centre and only a short walk from the historic market place. The highlight of Whittlesey’s year is the annual Straw Bear Festival in January when residents disguise themselves as bears by wrapping up in straw. (https://strawbear.org.uk)

Fenland History

Fenland has had many nicknames over the years and each one sheds a different light on the various aspects of its history.

Medieval

In Medieval times the area had a number of major ecclesiastical establishments, including Crowland, Ramsey, Chatteris and Thorney Abbeys, as well as Ely and Peterborough Cathedrals. Reflecting this ample provision for the spiritual, the name The Holy Land of the English was applied.

17th Century

Prior to the draining of the Fens in the 17th Century by a Dutchman, Cornelius Vermuyden, the area was often referred to as The Great Eastern Swamp, or The Old Drowned Lands.

The first drainage scheme was intended to provide relief from flooding during summer months and gave rise to the description The Summer Lands.

World War II

During WWII the productive rich black soil of the Fens was put to use feeding the country, which was in danger of going hungry as the German blockade of shipping tightened. The area then acquired the deserved nickname The Breadbasket of Britain.

The flat countryside, devoid of hills to disturb its great panoramic landscapes, has given rise to the name The Land of the Three-quarter Sky.

But we prefer to think of it as Fox Narrow Boat country!

In the Middle Ages Fenland enjoyed so many religious institutions that it attracted the description the ‘Holy Land of the English’. Not all have survived, but the March church of St Wendreda boasts a double hammer beam roof featuring 118 carved angels.

roof church st wendreda

roof church st wendreda

The founder of the Victorian Society, and former Poet Laureate, Sir John Betjeman wrote that the angel roof of St Wendreda’s church was ‘worth cycling forty miles into a head wind’ to see.

Those who have braved a fierce Fenland wind blowing from the Urals, uninterrupted by hills or trees, will appreciate quite how much effort is required to cycle so far in these conditions. And those who have visited St Wendreda’s will also appreciate quite how well that effort is rewarded – though the roof remains just as spectacular, even if less strenuous means of transport are used when visiting!

In the 19th century the only way agricultural workers in remote Fenland villages went anywhere was by walking. In 1896 the Vicar of Stretham resolved that if people couldn’t easily get to church, he would take the church to the people.

floating church fenland uk

floating church fenland uk

In 1896 a floating church was commissioned to serve the Fenland parish of Holme. At the time Holme had 42 houses spread over a distance of between two and four miles from the parish church by road, whereas they were all within one mile of the river, and 26 of them practically bankside.

Unable to ring bells from a conventional spire (which wouldn’t have fitted under the low fenland bridges), the Floating Church (or ‘Ark’ as it came to be known) flew two flags, those of St Andrew & St George, to announce that services were about to start. Between its launch and October 1904, a choir was formed, needlework and bible classes held, and 74 baptisms are recorded as having taken place on board.

In 1907 the barge was abandoned near Ramsey St Mary before being sold off to a group of young men who renamed it ‘Saint’s Rest’, converted it into a houseboat.

I’m the author of the Imray boating guide “Fenland Waters” – available from Foxs. If you’d like to know more of the history of our ‘secret’ world I invite you to buy a copy. Chris Howes.

See our interactive fenland waterways map for historic sights, moorings, pubs, restaurants & things to see and do on the middle level.

If you are interested in exploring the Fenland Waterways Foxs have day hire narrowboats and holiday boats available.

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Image Credit: Chris Howes (except: Fox Narrowboats; top image & church roof St. Wendreda)

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